An expert explains how to wear Barbiecore in a grown-up way

The aesthetic that the style set just can't get enough of, Barbiecore is the term coined for the hot pink trend that is dominating lifestyle sectors at the moment. Linked to the release of the Barbie movie, expect clothing, accessories and homeware items in the hue most associated with the brand Barbie and we’ve got all the inspiration you need on how you can incorporate the style into your own wardrobe in a sophisticated and grown-up way.

Derived from the world-famous doll, Barbiecore is based on the character's fabulously pink aesthetic. Launched in the 1950s the resurgence in Barbie's popularity and the emergence of the Barbiecore trend is thanks to pivotal fashion and cultural moments. Beginning with Valentino's Pink PP Collection set on a hotter-than-hot pink runway at Fashion Week last year, kicked started the obsession with this hot hue. 

However, more recently, pictures of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling filming Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated live-action Barbie film, alongside the many premiere red carpet appearances of the cast have upped the ante once more. This, coupled with the rise in dopamine dressing, has led celebrities and designers to gravitate towards embracing this fun-loving, hot pink shade, creating the Barbiecore trend in its wake. Such is the look's popularity, that #Barbiecore has reached over 7.9 million views on TikTok.

"Maximalist trends have been fashionistas’ first port of call ever since we packed our loungewear away, and whether it be floor length gowns, exaggerated flares or metallic crop tops - this summer is all about hot pink," says Emily Stott, Stylist Ambassador at Stitch Fix UK

"At Stitch Fix we’ve seen a 297% increase in womenswear requests for ‘hot pink’ from July 1 to July 15, so it looks like the trend is more than a fleeting craze."

What is Barbiecore?

The Barbiecore aesthetic is bright, bold and uber pink. One of the hottest fashion color trends 2023, the vibrant shade is a serious mood booster. Originating in 2022, this color trend has continued into this year, as the hype for the film ramps up.

"The style is all about looking pretty in pink. We’re seeing lots of matching pink sets, monochromatic looks and feminine silhouettes. Brands like Maison Valentino and Miu Miu have also started to incorporate the signature core trend into their fashion lines, embracing colorful prints and textures that incorporate the modern characteristics of Barbiecore,” explains Nick Drewe, Trend Expert at WeThrift.

Whether you want to go full-on plastic fantastic in head-to-toe pink and rock the best pink dresses or you want to do a subtle nod to the trend with a cute pink accessory, discovering what is Barbie and tapping into Barbie’s world is the perfect summer endorphin boost. 

From Surfer Barbie to Holiday Barbie, there really is a Barbiecore look for every occasion making it super easy to work this trend into your wardrobe. There are no rules when it comes to the trend, so consider 'what color suits me', as you'll want to find the right shade for you. However, if you really want to hit the mark, look to bolder tones such as hot pink, fuchsia and bubblegum. If you're worried about whether the color suits you, keep it away from your face, opting for skirts, shoes or handbags in the perfectly pink hue.

"The main consideration when embracing any new trend is to make sure it works for you and your style, so you can feel your most confident. Whether it be a head-to-toe, hot pink ensemble, or something as simple as a flash of hot pink nail varnish, take on the trend in a way that feels personal to you and you’ll undoubtedly feel amazing!" says Emily.

Neon accents and a nod to '90s fashion trends and '00s nostalgia are also part of the Barbiecore aesthetic so try pairing with lime green or faded, light wash denim and add splashes of statement prints.

"Name a more iconic duo than pink and green. These two beauties sit opposite each other in the color spectrum, so work well in partnership. Experiment with different ways to mix and match these colors, whether it be a green dress and pink shoes, or a pink top and green bottoms," adds Emily.

What is Barbicore: How to style the trend in a chic and grown-up way

While this trend might, at first glance feel a bit 'young', the truth is, it's largely about championing the Barbie color palette, meaning you can choose pieces and silhouettes that work for your body type and taste. Seeping into every part of the fashion landscape, working out what is Barbiecore and how to wear it is a cinch with our fashion team's top style picks. 

1. Best dresses for Barbiecore

Barbie was often considered to have the ‘dream’ life - she had the dream house, the dream boyfriend in Ken and of course the dream wardrobe and one thing she was never short of was stylish dresses. So if you want to fully embrace the Barbiecore trend, a pink dress is a good place to start. From the best midi dresses to the best summer dresses, there are a plethora of styles out there for every style and budget. Stick to a fun aesthetic, that's core to the trend and look for playful details such as frothy tulle, flirty frills, and ladylike silhouettes. 

2. Best tops for Barbiecore

If the stereotyped, girlie vibe of full-on pink is not to your taste, that doesn't mean you have to ignore the Barbiecore trend altogether. Part of the journey of discovering Barbiecore is looking at ways to incorporate elements into your look in a sophisticated way.

If you want a more modern take, look for tailored separates such as the best blazers and cotton shirts all in that signature pink color palette. Wear with coordinating trousers for an eye-catching Barbie-inspired look, or keep it subtle and layer a pink blazer over your best jeans for a pop of color that has just as much impact and is just as trend-worthy.

3. Best bottoms for Barbiecore

Barbiecore isn't just reserved for the weekends though, embrace pink in the week and make this trend work for the office too. Look for tailored trousers and smart skirts in this season's favorite hue to up-style the everyday. 

Balance out the loud shade and wear with neutral tops such as a white blouse or cream jacket for the 9-5, before swapping for a bolder hue or coordinating blazer and silky cami when cocktail hour hits.

"Try wearing different tones of pink together for a sophisticated take on the trend. In the summer months, style a pastel pink tee with a hot pink midi skirt from the likes of Boden, Hush, or Thought - all brands we stock at Stitch Fix. As the weather cools, opt for a hot pink blazer, layered over a white tee and pale pink trousers - I think Elle Woods would approve of this one!" says Emily.

4. Best bags for Barbiecore

The easiest way to introduce a new color into your look is through an accessory, so if you want to ease yourself into this vibrant trend, start with a pink bag. Whether that’s one of the best crossbody bags for everyday or a retro '90s shoulder silhouette, a pink piece of arm candy will lift your look in an instant.

Look out for stud detailing and chain straps to give the look a tougher edge and quilted detailing for added texture and interest.

5. Best shoes for Barbiecore

Just like a pink bag, a bold shoe will help elevate the simplest of looks. Tap into that retro Barbie aesthetic and opt for '90s platform sandals, Western boots and fun slip-on mules - perfect for upping the ante on simple jeans and t-shirt combos. 

For more casual days, give your sporty sandals or sneakers the pink treatment - Barbie was the queen of athletic gear after all.

While pink shoes very much channel the Barbiecore look, any bright shoe, or cool western boot - particularly when teamed with Barbie-pink styles will instantly give a big hit of Barbiecore to your look.